Table

ABSTRACT

A table may include a table top, one or more side rails, and one or more legs that are movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the table top. The side rails are preferably attached to one or more lips or projections that extend downwardly from a lower portion of the table top. The side rails may include three portions that may enclose at least a portion of the lip. Advantageously, the side rails may be attached to the lip by a snap, friction or interference fit. In addition, an outer portion of the side rail may be generally aligned with an outer edge of the table top.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 60/485,754, entitled TABLE, which was filedon Jul. 9, 2003. This application claims priority to and the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/485,817, entitled TABLE,which was filed on Jul. 9, 2003. Each of these applications is herebyincorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to furniture and, in particular,to tables.

2. Description of Related Art

Conventional tables typically include one or more legs that areconnected to a table top. Many conventional tables include folding legsto allow the table to be more easily transported and stored. Inparticular, conventional tables often include legs that are pivotallyattached to the table top to allow the legs to be moved between anextended position in which the legs extend outwardly from the table topand a collapsed or storage position in which the legs are positionednear or adjacent to the table top. Thus, when the table is desired to beused, the legs are placed in the extended position. On the other hand,when the table is desired to be transported or stored, the legs can beplaced in the collapsed or storage position.

The legs of many conventional tables are pivotally connected to thetable top and the legs are frequently constructed from hollow metaltubes. The table tops of conventional tables are often constructed frommaterials such as metal, which may be formed or cut into the desiredshapes and sizes, or wood, which may include a number of slats, panelsor boards that are fastened together. In particular, conventional tabletops may be constructed from materials such as steel, aluminum, plywood,particle board, fiber board, pressed board, and other types of woodenlaminates. Table tops constructed from wood or metal, however, are oftenrelatively heavy and this may make the table awkward or difficult tomove. Conventional table tops constructed from wood or metal are alsorelatively expensive and these types of table tops must generally betreated or finished before use. For example, table tops constructed fromwood are often sanded, painted, stained or otherwise treated, and tabletops constructed from metal must be formed or cut into the desired shapeand then painted or finished.

It is also known to attach a covering to the top of a metal or woodentable top. These coverings are often constructed from canvas, vinyl andother types of fabrics or materials. The coverings may be intended toprovide a smooth, flat upper surface to allow the user to write or workon the table. The coverings may also improve the appearance of the tableand the coverings may be used to hide imperfects, blemishes,discolorations or other types of marks in the table top.Disadvantageously, the coverings may increase the costs of the table andincrease the time required to construct the table. In addition, thecoverings are often easily ripped, torn or otherwise damaged, and thecoverings are generally very difficult to repair or replace.

Conventional table tops constructed from materials such as plywood,particle board, fiber board, pressed board or wooden laminates are oftennot very strong or rigid. Consequently, these types of tables oftencannot support large or heavy items without undesirably bending,breaking or cracking. In addition, these types of tables typicallycannot withstand large forces or impacts without deforming, fracturingor failing. For example, if a large load or force is applied to thetable, then the table top may split, crack or shatter. Further, one ormore of the legs may become disconnected from the table top, which mayallow the table to collapse.

Card tables are well known types of tables that traditionally includetable tops constructed from plywood, particle board, fiber board,pressed board or wooden laminates. Conventional card tables typicallyinclude table tops with generally planar, flat upper surfaces.Conventional card tables are also relatively lightweight and can beeasily transported. Most conventional card tables include four legs thatare each independently connected to the table top. Specifically, thelegs of most known card tables are pivotally connected to the table topby a brace with an elongated slot. The slotted brace allows each leg toindividually fold against the table top. The slotted brace may also besized and configured to lock the leg in the extended and/or collapsedposition.

Conventional card tables often include a covering over the upper surfaceof the table top. As discussed above, the covering often undesirablyincreases manufacturing time and costs. Additionally, conventional cardtables are often not very strong because the table tops are typicallyconstructed from plywood, particle board, Z fiber board, pressed boardor wooden laminates. Further, the legs are often not securely attachedto conventional card tables, and this may allow the legs to undesirablywobble or otherwise move. Once a conventional card table is damaged orbroken, it is often discarded and a new card table is purchased becausedamaged or broken card are often difficult to fix or repair.

Conventional tables with table tops constructed from wood or metal maybe relatively heavy, which makes the table more difficult to move andmore expensive to ship and transport. In order to decrease the weight ofthese known tables, the table tops can be constructed from lightweightmaterials such as plastic. In particular, the table tops can beconstructed from injection molded plastic to form thin, lightweighttable tops. Disadvantageously, these lightweight table tops frequentlyrequire reinforcing members to strengthen the table top. For example, awooden core may be placed within the injection molded table top in orderto strengthen the table top.

It is also known to construct tables with table tops constructed fromblow-molded plastic. The blow-molded plastic table tops, however, mayalso require reinforcing members, such as a frame, or other structuralparts, such as brackets, support members and the like, to strengthen thetable top. Disadvantageously, these reinforcing members and otherstructural parts may undesirably increase the weight of the table. Thereinforcing members and other parts may also be time consuming toinstall and may decrease the structural integrity of the table top. Forexample, a number of fasteners may be required to attach eachreinforcing member to the table top and these fasteners may createnumerous holes in the table top, which may decrease the strength andstructural integrity of the table top. In addition, these fasteners andother parts may increase the time required to assemble the table, whichmay increase manufacturing costs. Further, the reinforcing members maynot be securely attached to the table top, which may allow the table toundesirably fail. In particular, if the reinforcing members are notsecurely attached to the table top by the fasteners, then the fastenersmay be undesirably pulled out of the blow-molded plastic table top. Ifthis occurs, a large opening may be created in the table top and it maybe very difficult or impossible to repair the table top. Additionally,the reinforcing members and other parts of may conventional tables mayhave sharp edges that can injure a user's arms or legs, and thesestructures may impair or limit the amount of leg room and/or storagespace underneath the table.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A need therefore exists for a table that reduces or eliminates theabove-described disadvantages and problems.

One aspect is a table that includes a table top and one or more legs.The legs are preferably movable relative to the table top between anextended position and a collapsed position. Advantageously, when thelegs are in the extended position, the table can be used to supportvarious items and/or for many different purposes. On the other hand,when the legs are in the collapsed position, the table can be easilytransported and stored. Preferably, when the legs are in the collapsedposition, the legs are positioned near or adjacent to the table top. Thelegs could also be removably connected to the table top.

Another aspect is a table that may include legs that are pivotal betweenthe extended and collapsed positions relative to the table top. Forexample, the legs may be pivotally connected to the table top.Significantly, if the legs are pivotally connected to the table top,then the legs may be quickly and easily moved between extended andcollapsed positions. Advantageously, one or more legs may beinterconnected so that the legs are simultaneously moved between theextended and collapsed positions. The legs may also be independentlyconnected to the table top so that each of the legs can be separatelymoved between the extended and collapsed positions.

Still another aspect is a table that may include one or more crossbarsthat are attached to the legs or are an integral part of the legs. Thecrossbars may allow the legs to be connected to the table. For example,the crossbars may allow the legs to be pivotally or rotatably attachedto the table top. The crossbars may also be pitovally or rotatablyattached to a frame. The legs may also include one or more feet, footmembers and/or end caps, if desired.

Yet another aspect is a table that may be specifically sized andconfigured for particular uses. For example, the table may have a lengthof about six or eight feet, and a width of about two to three feet. Thismay allow the table to be used as a utility table. In addition, thetable may also have a length of about six or eight feet and a width ofless than two feet to create a conference type table. The table,however, could have any suitable size and configuration. Thus, the tablemay be shorter or longer, for example, and the table top could have arectangular, square, circular, or other suitable shape. In addition, thetable could be sized and configured to be used by multiple persons atone time, or by only a single user.

A further aspect is a table that may be relatively lightweight, whichmay allow the table to be easily moved and transported. For example, thetable may be constructed with a relatively lightweight table top and/orlegs. Thus, the table top may be constructed from relatively lightweightmaterials such as plastic and the legs may be constructed fromrelatively lightweight materials such as hollow metal tubes. Inaddition, the table may be sized and configured so that it does not takeup any unnecessary space.

A still further aspect is a table that may include a table top that isconstructed from lightweight materials, which may allow the table to bereadily lifted and moved. Desirably, the table top is constructed fromplastic, such as high density polyethylene or polypropylene, but othersuitable types of synthetic and non-synthetic materials may also beused. In addition, the table top is preferably constructed byblow-molding, but the table top may also be constructed by othersuitable processes such as injection molding, rotational molding,compression molding and the like. Advantageously, the blow-moldedplastic table tops may be designed to create rigid, high-strengthstructures that are capable of withstanding repeated use and wear. Inaddition, the blow-molded plastic table tops may be easily manufacturedand formed into the desired shapes and sizes. In addition, theblow-molded plastic table tops can form structural components of thetable, which may minimize the number of components required to constructthe table.

Another aspect is a table that may include a table top with one or morefeatures that are integrally formed in the table top. For example, thetable could include a blow-molded plastic table top and one or morefeatures may be integrally formed in the table top during theblow-molding process as part of a unitary, one-piece structure. Thesefeatures may include, but are not limited to, a recessed portion formedin the bottom of the table top and/or a generally downwardly lip orprojection. The lip or projection may form part of an outer edge of thetable top, or it may be spaced inwardly from the outer edge of the tabletop.

Still another aspect is a table that may be relatively simple tomanufacture because it preferably consists of a table top constructedfrom blow-molded plastic. The blow-molded plastic table top may includetwo opposing walls that are spaced apart by a relatively small distance,which may increase the strength and rigidity of the table top. Theblow-molded plastic table top may also include one or more depressionsor tack-offs to further increase the strength of the table top and/orinterconnect the spaced apart walls. Significantly, the blow-moldedtable top may be lightweight, rigid, durable, weather resistant andgenerally temperature insensitive. Additionally, the blow-molded plastictable top may not corrode, rust or otherwise deteriorate over time.Further, the blow-molded table top can also be formed in various shapes,sizes, configurations and designs.

Yet another aspect is a table that may be quickly and easily assembled,which may reduce manufacturing and labor costs. Further, the table maybe used in wide variety of situations and uses. For example, the tablemay be used in conference rooms, meeting rooms, convention halls,banquet halls, ballrooms, board rooms, offices, homes, and the like. Inaddition, the table may be used to support various items such astelevisions, computers, sewing machines, microwaves, lamps, luggage, andthe like. The table may also be used, depending upon its size andconfiguration, as a bedside table, coffee table, night stand, desk, shoptable, and the like. Further, the table can be used while performing awide variety of tasks such as reading, writing, studying, working,eating, etc. Thus, the table can be used in a number of differentenvironments and it can perform numerous different tasks.

A further aspect is a table that may include table top and a frame thatis attached to the table top. Advantageously, the frame may be used toadd stability and strength to the table and/or table top. The frame, forexample, may include one or more elongated rails that are positionedalong a length of the table top. In particular, the rails may extendalong one or both sides of the table. The rails may also be securelyattached to the table top in order to add stability and/or strength tothe table top. In addition, all or a portion of the rails may beconnected to a downwardly extending lip or projection. The rails, forexample, may at least partially enclose the downwardly extending lip orprojection. Significantly, the rails and/or lip may be positioned nearor at an outer edge of the table top. The rails and/or lip, however, mayalso be spaced apart from the outer edge of the table top.

A still further aspect is a table that may include a table top and oneor more side rails. Desirably, the table includes two side rails andeach side rail is attached at or near opposing sides of the table top.For example, the side rails may be attached to an outer lip and the siderails may cover all or a portion of the lip. The side rails, however, donot have to be attached to a lip or near opposing sides of the table.

Another aspect is table that may include a lip that is preferablyintegrally constructed as part of the table top. The lip may include aninner surface, a lower surface and an outer surface. The lip may alsoinclude one or more channels, grooves or the like. For example, theouter surface of the lip may include a channel and a channel may bedisposed near or in the inner surface of the channel. Advantageously,the lip may be sized and configured to allow side rails or otherreinforcement structures to be attached to the table top. In particular,the channel formed in the outer surface of the lip may be sized andconfigured to receive a portion of a side rail and the channel formednear or in the inner surface of the lip may be sized and configured toreceive another portion of the side rail. Significantly, the lip andchannels may allow the rail to be attached to and/or enclose threedifferent surfaces of the lip, which may increase the strength andstability of the table top. Additionally, the lip and channels may allowthe rail to be attached to one or more portions of the lip. Further, thelip and channels may allow the rail to be attached to the lip by afriction, snap or interference fit.

Still another aspect is a table that may include a table top constructedfrom blow-molded plastic, the table top including an upper portion and alower portion, the table top including a hollow interior portion that isformed during the blow-molding process. The table may also include a lipintegrally formed with the table top as part of a unitary, one-piececonstruction, the lip extending generally downwardly from the lowerportion of the table top, the lip including a hollow interior portionthat is formed during the blow-molding process, the lip including anouter portion, an inner portion and a lower portion. In addition, thetable may include a first leg support movable between a collapsedposition and an extended position relative to the table top, and asecond leg support movable between a collapsed position and an extendedposition relative to the table top. The table may also a first side railconnected to a first portion of the lip, the first side rail includingan outer portion, an inner portion and a lower portion; the outerportion, inner portion and lower portion of the first side railenclosing at least a portion of the outer portion, inner portion andlower portion of the lip; and a second side rail connected to a secondportion of the lip, the second side rail including an outer portion, aninner portion and a lower portion; the outer portion, inner portion andlower portion of the second side rail enclosing at least a portion ofthe outer portion, inner portion and lower portion of the lip.

Advantageously, the table may include one or more of the followingfeatures. For example, the table may include a first groove in the outerportion of the lip and an end of the outer portion of the first siderail being at least partially disposed within the first groove; and asecond groove in the outer portion of the lip and an end of the outerportion of the second side rail being at least partially disposed withinthe second groove. The table may also include a first channel in theinner portion of the lip and an end of the inner portion of the firstside rail being at least partially disposed within the first channel;and a second channel in the inner portion of the lip and an end of theinner portion of the second side rail being at least partially disposedwithin the second channel. In addition, the table may include a firstchannel in the lower portion of the table top and an end of the innerportion of the first side rail being at least partially disposed withinthe first channel; and a second channel in the lower portion of thetable top and an end of the inner portion of the second side rail beingat least partially disposed within the second channel. Further, theinner portion of the first side rail may contact at least a portion ofthe inner portion of the lip, the outer portion of the first side railmay contact at least a portion of the outer portion of the lip, and thelower portion of the first side rail may contact at least a portion ofthe lower portion of the lip; and the inner portion of the second siderail may contact at least a portion of the inner portion of the lip, theouter portion of the second side rail may contact at least a portion ofthe outer portion of the lip, and the lower portion of the second siderail may contact at least a portion of the lower portion of the lip.

Advantageously, the first side rail may be attached to the lip by afriction, snap or interference fit; and the second side rail may beattached to the lip by a friction, snap or interference fit. Inaddition, the table may include an outer edge of the table top, whereinthe outer edge of the table top is generally aligned with the outerportion of the first side rail and the outer edge of the table top isgenerally aligned with the outer portion of the second side rail. Thetable may also include a first projection in the lower portion of thetable top, the first projection being disposed proximate an end of theinner portion of the first side rail; and farther comprising a secondprojection in the lower portion of the table top, the second projectionbeing disposed proximate an end of the inner portion of the second siderail. While the lip may be generally disposed about an outer perimeterof the table top, the lip may also be disposed about only a portion ofthe table top and the lip may be spaced apart or inwardly from an outeredge or perimeter of the table top.

Significantly, the table may also include a second lip. Advantageously,the second lip may be spaced apart from the first lip, but the first andsecond lips do not have to be spaced apart. Preferably, the second lipis integrally formed with the table top as part of a unitary, one-piececonstruction, the second lip extends generally downwardly from the lowerportion of the table top, the second lip includes a hollow interiorportion that is formed during the blow-molding process, and the secondlip includes an outer portion, an inner portion and a lower portion.

The table may also include one or more of the following features, suchas a first channel at least partially disposed in the lower portion ofthe lip, one end of the first side rail being disposed proximate thefirst channel; and a second channel at least partially disposed in thelower portion of the lip, one end of the second side rail being disposedproximate the second channel. The table may be configured such that thelip includes three generally planar sections, the first side railincludes three generally planar sections and the second side railincludes three generally planar sections; and the three generally planarsections of the first side rail may cover at least a portion of thethree generally planar sections of the lip; and the three generallyplanar sections of the second side rail may cover at least a portion ofthe three generally planar sections of the lip. In addition, the tablemay be configured such that the three generally planar sections of thefirst side rail contact the three generally planar sections of the lip;and the three generally planar sections of the second side rail contactthe three generally planar section of the lip.

In addition, the table may be sized and configured such that the outerportion of the first side rail is disposed generally parallel to theinner portion of the first side rail; and the outer portion of thesecond side rail is disposed generally parallel to the inner portion ofthe second side rail. The table may also be sized and configured suchthat the outer portion of the first side rail is disposed generallyparallel to the outer portion of the lip, the inner portion of the firstside rail is disposed generally parallel to the inner portion of thelip, and the lower portion of the first side rail is disposed generallyparallel to the lower portion of the lip; and the outer portion of thesecond side rail is disposed generally parallel to the outer portion ofthe lip, the inner portion of the second side rail is disposed generallyparallel to the inner portion of the lip, and the lower portion of thesecond side rail is disposed generally parallel to the lower portion ofthe lip. Finally, while the lip may be disposed about the entireperimeter of the table top, the lip may also be disposed about only aportion of the table top.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become more fully apparent from the following detaileddescription of preferred embodiments and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments tofurther clarify the above and other aspects, advantages and features ofthe present invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings depictonly preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended tolimits its scope. The invention will be described and explained withadditional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanyingdrawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a table;

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the table shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the table shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of another exemplary embodiment of a table;

FIG. 5 is a cut-away, prospective view of an exemplary embodiment of aside rail and a table top;

FIG. 6 is a cut-away, side view of the side rail and the table top shownin FIG. 5;

FIG. 7A is a cut-away, prospective view of the side rail and the tabletop shown in FIG. 5, illustrating an exemplary embodiment for connectingthe side rail and the table top, wherein one edge of the side rail isinserted into a channel or groove in the table top;

FIG. 7B is a cut-away, prospective view of the side rail and the tabletop shown in FIG. 5, illustrating the side rail partially connected tothe table top;

FIG. 7C is a cut-away, prospective view of the side rail and the tabletop shown in FIG. 5, illustrating the side rail partially connected tothe table top;

FIG. 7D is a cut-away, prospective view of the side rail and the tabletop shown in FIG. 5, illustrating the side rail connected to the tabletop;

FIG. 8A is a cut-away, prospective view of another exemplary embodimentof a side rail and a table top;

FIG. 8B is a cut-away, side view of the side rail and the table topshown in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9A is a cut-away, prospective view of an exemplary embodiment of aside rail and a table top; and

FIG. 9B is a cut-away, side view of the side rail and the table topshown in FIG. 9A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is directed towards a table. The principles of thepresent invention, however, are not limited to tables. It will beunderstood that, in light of the present disclosure, the table disclosedherein can be successfully used in connection with other types offurniture.

Additionally, to assist in the description of the table, words such astop, bottom, front, rear, right and left are used to describe theaccompanying figures. It will be appreciated, however, that the presentinvention can be located in a variety of desired positions—includingvarious angles, sideways and even upside down. A detailed description ofthe table now follows.

As seen in FIG. 1, the table 2 may include a table top 4 and one or morelegs, such as legs 6, 8, 10, and 12. One or more cross braces may beprovided to secure two or more legs. For example, a cross brace 14 mayinterconnect legs 6 and 8, and a cross brace 16 may interconnect legs 10and 12. Accordingly, when one leg is moved, a corresponding,interconnected leg may also move. The legs 6, 8, 10, and 12 may beinterconnected using other suitable connectors or methods. Of course,the legs 6, 8, 10, and 12 need not be interconnected, and cross bracesare not required for the table 2. Further, if desired, the legs 6, 8,10, and 12 may move independently of each other. One skilled in the artwill appreciate that the table 2 may include any suitable number andtype of legs and/or table supports.

The legs 6, 8, 10, 12 are preferably movable relative to the table top 4between an extended position and a collapsed position. Advantageously,when the legs 6, 8, 10, 12 are in the extended position, the table 2 canbe used to support various items and/or for many different purposes. Onthe other hand, when the legs 6, 8, 10, 12 are in the collapsedposition, the table 2 can be easily transported and stored. Preferably,when the legs 6, 8, 10, 12 are in the collapsed position, the legs arepositioned near or adjacent to the table top 4. The legs 6, 8, 10, 12,however, could also be removably connected to the table top 4.

The legs 6, 8, 10, 12 are preferably pivotal between the extended andcollapsed positions relative to the table top 4. For example, the legs6, 8, 10, 12 may be pivotally connected to the table top 4.Significantly, if the legs 6, 8, 10, 12 are pivotally connected to thetable top 4, then the legs may be quickly and easily moved betweenextended and collapsed positions. The table 2 may also include one ormore crossbars that are attached to the legs 6, 8, 10, 12 or are anintegral part of the legs. The crossbars may allow the legs 6, 8, 10, 12to be connected to the table 2. For example, the crossbars may allow thelegs 6, 8, 10, 12 to be pivotally or rotatably attached to the table top4. The crossbars may also be pitovally or rotatably attached to a frame.The legs 6, 8, 10, 12 may also include one or more feet, foot membersand/or end caps, if desired.

Advantageously, the table 2 may be specifically sized and configured forparticular uses. For example, the table 2 may have a length of about sixor eight feet, and a width of about two to three feet. This may allowthe table to be used as a utility table. In addition, the table 2 mayalso have a length of about six or eight feet and a width of less thantwo feet to create a conference type table. The table 2, however, couldhave any suitable size and configuration. Thus, the table 2 may beshorter or longer, if desired. In addition, the table 2 may include atable top 4 that has a rectangular, square, circular, or other suitableshape.

The table 2 may also be sized and configured for use by an individual orit may be sized and configured for use by more than one person. Forexample, if the table 2 is sized and configured for use by a singleperson, then it may have a relatively small table top 4. On the otherhand, if the table 2 is sized and configured to be used by more than oneperson, it may have a larger size. In addition, the table 2 may be sizedand configured for particular uses, such as a personal table, computertable, game table, bedside table, night stand, television table, utilitytable, and the like. The table 2 may also be sized and configured forparticular uses such as a desk. Thus, while the table 2 could bespecifically sized and configured for a particular use or activity, thetable could have various suitable configurations and arrangementsdepending, for example, upon the intended use of the table or it couldhave a general shape and design that allows it to be used in a widevariety of situations and circumstances.

As shown in FIG. 1, the table top 4 may include a generally rectangularshape. For example, the table top 4 may be about seventy-two (72) inchesin length and about thirty (30) inches in width, but one skilled in theart will appreciate that the table top can have other suitable sizes andconfigurations depending, for example, upon the intended use of thetable.

The table top 4 may include beveled, sloped or rounded surfaces disposedbetween the top surface and the sides of the table 2. The beveledsurfaces may be sized and configured to increase the comfort of theperson(s) using the table 2, but the table does not require beveledsurfaces. In addition, the corners and edges of the table top 4 do nothave to be rounded and, in contrast, the corners and edges could haveany desirable configuration, but the rounded features may increase thecomfort of the person(s) using the table.

The table top 4 is preferably constructed from a lightweight materialand, more preferably, the table top is constructed from plastic, such ashigh density polyethylene. The plastic table top 4 is desirably formedby a blow-molding process because, for example, it allows a strong,lightweight, rigid and sturdy table top to be quickly and easilymanufactured. Advantageously, the blow-molded plastic table top 4 has alighter weight than conventional table tops constructed from wood ormetal, and the blow-molded plastic table top can be constructed fromless plastic than conventional plastic table tops, which may savemanufacturing costs and reduce consumer costs. In particular, theblow-molded table top 4 can be manufactured with thin plastic walls andthat allows the table top to cool faster during the manufacturingprocess, which decreases the manufacturing time.

Further, the blow-molded plastic table top 4 can be constructed to forma variety of suitable shapes, configurations, sizes, designs and/orcolors depending, for example, upon the intended use of table 2. Forexample, the table top 4 can be constructed with a generally rectangularconfiguration of about thirty-six (36) inches by about forty (40)inches. The table top 4 could also have a generally circularconfiguration with a diameter of about thirty (30) inches or a generallysquare configuration with thirty-six inch (36) sides. Of course, theblow-molded table top 4 can have any suitable size and configurationdepending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 2.

The table top 4 is preferably constructed from blow-molded plasticbecause blow-molded plastic table tops are durable, weather resistant,generally temperature insensitive, corrosion resistant, rust resistant,and generally do not deteriorate over time. One skilled in the art,however, will appreciate that the table top 4 does not have to beconstructed from blow-molded plastic and other suitable materials and/orprocesses can be used to construct the table top depending, for example,upon the intended use of the table 2. Thus, the table top 4 could beconstructed from other materials with suitable characteristics, such aswood, metal, and other types of plastic. Additionally, the table top 4does not have to be constructed from blow-molded plastic and it could beconstructed from injection molded plastic, extrusion molded plastic, andthe like.

The table top 4 may include one or more features that are integrallyformed in the table top as part of a unitary, one-piece structure. Forexample, the table top 4 may include a generally downwardly extendinglip that is disposed about the outer portion of the table top. The tabletop 4 could also include a recess that is formed in the lower surface ofthe table top which may be sized and configured to receive at least aportion of the legs 6, 8, 10 and 12 when the legs are in the collapsedposition. Advantageously, this may facilitate stacking of the tables 2if the legs 6, 8, 10, 12 do not extend beyond a plane that is generallyaligned with a lower surface of the table top 4. It will be appreciatedthat the table top 4 could have any suitable number of features, but thetable top does not require any particular features or number offeatures.

As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 4, the lower surface of the table top 4 mayinclude a plurality of depressions. The depressions preferably cover atleast a substantial portion of the lower surface of the table top 4 andthe depressions preferably extend towards and/or contact the uppersurface of the table top. In particular, the ends of the depressions mayengage, contact or abut the inner surface of the upper surface of tabletop 4 or the ends of the depressions may be spaced from the uppersurface of the table top. The depressions may be formed in apredetermined pattern or array, and the depressions may be placed in astaggered, geometric, random or other suitable arrangement.

The depressions may be designed to increase the strength and structuralintegrity of the table 2. While it was previously believed that strongerstructures were provided by making the walls thicker and/or addingstructures such as ribbing, the depressions may provide the surprisingand unexpected result that an increased number of depressions mayprovide a stronger structure and/or thinner walls may be used toconstruct the structure. Surprisingly, the depressions may increase thestructural integrity of the structure despite forming disruptions in thecontinuity of the lower surface of the table top 4, and less plastic canbe used to make the structure even though the plurality of depressionsare formed in the structure. The costs of manufacturing andtransportation may be decreased because thinner plastic walls may beused to construct the table top 4, which may create a lighter weighttable 2.

Additionally, when blow-molded structures such as table tops 4 areformed, a certain amount of time must elapse before the structure can beremoved from the mold. Blow-molded structures with thicker walls requirea longer cooling time than structures with thinner walls. Thedepressions, however, may allow table tops 4 with thinner plastic wallsto be constructed and that reduces the cooling time before the tabletops can be removed from the mold. Significantly, a reduced cycle timemay increase the efficiency of manufacturing process and the cost of thetable 2 may be reduced because less plastic may be used to make thetable top 4.

The table 2 may include a frame and the frame may include one or moreside rails, such as a side rail 18 and a side rail 20. The side rails 18and 20 may be attached to the table top 4 in using one or more suitablemethods. For example, the side rail 20 may be attached to the table top4 using fasteners 22, 24, 26, and 28. The fasteners 22, 24, 26, 28 maybe any suitable type of structure or device that attaches the side rails18, 20 to the table top 2. For example, the fasteners may be bolts,screws, rivets, nails and the like. One of ordinary skill in the artwill also understand that adhesives may also be used to connect the siderails 18, 20 to the table top 4. In addition, one of ordinary skill inthe art will understand that any suitable number or type of fastenersmay be used to connect the side rails 18 and 20 to the table top 4.Further, as discussed in more detail below, the side rails 18 and 20 maybe attached to the table top 4 using a snap, interference or frictionfit.

The table 2 may also include crossbars 30 and 32 may be used to connectthe legs 6, 8, 10, 12 to the table top 4. The crossbars 30, 32, forexample, may be rotatably attached to one or more of the table top 4 orthe frame. As shown in the accompanying figures, each end of thecrossbar 30 may be inserted into one or more holes, apertures, or thelike, which may advantageously be formed in the side rails 18, 20 and/orin the table top 4. Likewise, the ends of the crossbar 32 may beinserted into one or more holes, apertures, or the like formed in theside rails 18, 20 and/or in the table top 4. Of course, the crossbars 30and 32 may be attached in any other suitable manner, with any suitabledevice, to any desired portions of the table 2. The table 2, however,does not require the use of the cross bars 30, 32.

The legs 6, 8, 10, 12 are preferably securely attached to the crossbars30, 32. The crossbars 30, 32 may also be an integral part of the legs 6,8, 10 and 12. One or more braces may also be attached to the legs 6, 8,10, 12 to assist in moving the legs between the extended and collapsedpositions. The braces may also be used to secure or hold the legs 6, 8,10, 12 in the extended and/or collapsed positions. For example, the leg8 may be pivotally attached to a brace 34 and the leg 6 may be pivotallyattached to a brace 36. The braces 34 and 36 may be pivotally attachedto one or more braces, such as brace 38, and this brace may be pivotallyattached to one or more braces, such as braces 40 and 42. The braces 40and 42 may be attached to the table top 4, a side rails 18, 20, or othersuitable portions of the table 2. One or more fasteners, such as rivets44 and 46, may be used to pivotally attach the legs 6, 8 to the braces34, 36. In addition, one or more fasteners, such as rivet 48, may beused to attach the braces 34, 36 to the brace 38. One of ordinary skillin the art will appreciate that any suitable type of braces andfasteners may be used depending, for example, upon the intended use ofthe table 2.

As shown in FIG. 2, the leg 12 may be pivotally attached to a brace 50,and the leg 10 may be pivotally attached to a brace 52. The braces 50,52 may be pivotally attached to a brace 54, which may be pivotallyattached to braces 56 and 58. The braces 56 and 58 may be attached tothe table top 4, side rails 18, 20, or other suitable portions of thetable 2. One or more fasteners, such as rivets 60 and 62, may be used topivotally attach the legs 10, 12 to the braces 50, 52. In addition, oneor more fasteners, such as a rivet 64, may be used to attach the braces50, 52 to the brace 54. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciatethat any suitable type of braces and fasteners may be used depending,for example, upon the intended use of the table 2.

As discussed above, the braces 40, 42, 56 and 58 may be attached to thetable top 4, the side rails 18, 20 or other suitable portions of thetable 2. For example, as shown in the accompanying figures, the braces42 and 58 may be connected to the side rail 18. In particular, thebraces 42 and 58 may be inserted into one or more holes, apertures, orthe like formed in the side rail 18 and formed in the table top 4.Likewise, braces 40 and 56 may be inserted into one or more holes,apertures, or the like formed in the side rail 20 and formed in thetable top 4. When inserted, the braces 40, 42, 56, and 58 mayadvantageously rotate. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciatethat the braces 40, 42, 56, 58 may be attached in any suitable manner toany desired portions of the table top 4 and/or side rails 18, 20. Forexample, the braces 40, 42, 56 and 58 may be connected by one or morefasteners to the table top 4 and/or side rails 18, 20. One of ordinaryskill in the art will also appreciate that the braces 40, 42, 56, 58 canhave other suitable shapes, sizes and configurations, and that thebraces are not required.

The table 2 may allow the legs 6, 8, 10, 12 to be secured in thecollapsed position. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the table top 4 mayinclude one or more structures that are used to secure the legs 6, 8,10, 12 in the collapsed position. In particular, the table top 4 mayinclude molded portions 66, 68, 70, 72 that may be used to secure thelegs 6, 8, 10, and 12 to the table top 4. Advantageously, the moldedportions 66, 68, 70, 72 may be integrally as part of the table top 4 toform a unitary, one-piece construction. The molded portions 66, 68, 70,72, however, do not have to be integrally molded with the table top 4.

The molded portions 66, 68, 70, 72 are preferably sized and configuredto secure the legs 6, 8, 10, 12 in the collapsed position by a snap,friction or interference 2 g, b fit. For example, as the legs 6, 8, 10,12 are moved into the collapsed position, the molded portions 66, 68,70, 72 may deform slightly to allow the leg to be moved into thecollapsed position. The molded portions 66, 68, 70, 72 may thenresiliently return to its original position to secure the leg 6, 8, 10,12 in the collapsed position. It will be understood that any suitablenumber of molded portions may be used to secure the legs 6, 8, 10, 12 inthe collapsed position. It will also be understood that other types ofstructures, such as clips or brackets, may also be used to secure thelegs 6, 8, 10, 12 in the collapsed positions. The table 2, however, doesnot require the use of the molded portions 66, 68, 70, 72 and the moldedportions may have a variety of suitable sizes, shapes and configurationsdepending, for example, upon the size and shape of the legs 6, 8, 10,12.

As shown in FIG. 3, the table 2 may have a variety of suitableconfigurations and arrangements. For example, the exemplary embodimentof the table 2 shown in FIG. 3 includes a number of molded portions thatare integrally molded in the lower surface of the table top 4. Inparticular, the table top 4 may include molded portions 74, 76 thatextend along the width of the table and molded portions 78, 80, 82, 84that extend generally perpendicular to the molded portion 74 and 76. Themolded portions 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, and 84 may located at or near thecenter of the table top 4, or in any other suitable portion of the tabletop 4. The molded portions 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, and 84 may have otherdesired shapes, size and configurations depending, for example, upon thesize, shape and intended use of the table 2. The table 2, however, doesnot require any molded portions 74, 76, 78, 80, 82 or 84. The table 2may also include one z M or more reinforcement members, but these arealso not required.

The legs 6, 8, 10, 12 and the crossbars 30, 32 are preferablyconstructed from steel tubes. In addition, the cross braces 14, 16; thebraces 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58; and the side rails 18 and20 are preferably constructed using steel. These components may befinished, for example by painting or powder coating, to protect thecomponents from the elements. Advantageously, these steel components mayhelp create a table 2 that is strong and able to support a relativelylarge amount of weight. While the steel tubes preferably have agenerally circular cross-section, the tubes may also have elliptical,polygonal, oblong, square or other suitable cross-sectional shapes.Further, the tubes may have a uniform or non-uniform cross-section alongits length. Of course, the legs 6, 8, 10, 12; cross braces 14, 16;crossbars 30, 32; braces 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58; andside rails 18, 20 may be constructed from any other suitable materialswith appropriate characteristics and may have any desired size andshape.

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of another exemplary embodiment of a table 85,which is similar to the table 2, in which similar components aresimilarly numbered. As illustrated, the table 85 includes legs 6, 8, 10,12 and the legs are preferably pivotally attached to the table top 4.For example, the leg 6 may be pivotally attached to the brace 36 and theleg 8 may be pivotally attached to the brace 34, and these braces arepivotally attached to a brace 86, which may be pivotally attached to acrossbar 88. The illustrated example of the crossbar 88 is an elongatedmember that is connected to the side rails 18, 20 of the frame, but thecrossbar does not have to be connected to the side rails or the frame.In contrast, the crossbar 88 may be only connected to the table top 4.Of course, the crossbar 88 may be connected to both the table top 4 andthe side rails 18, 20. For example, the crossbar 88 may be attached tothe table top using one more portions molded in the table top 4, such asmolded portions 90, 92, 94, 96. The molded a portions 90, 92, 94, 96 mayadvantageously be used to attach the crossbar 88 to the table top 4using a snap fit, a friction fit, an interference fit, or the like. Themolded portions 90, 92, 94, 96 are preferably integrally molded in thetable top 4 as part of a unitary, one-piece structure, but the moldedportions do not have to be molded as part of the table top. For example,the molded portions 90, 92, 94, 96 may be separately formed and attachedto the table top 4. In addition, the molded portions 90, 92, 94, 96 mayhave other suitable shapes and sizes. Further, molded portions 90, 92,94, 96 do not have to be used to attached the cross bar 88 to the tabletop 4 and, in contrast, other suitable structures such as clips,brackets and fasteners may be used to attach the cross bar to the table2. Additionally, the ends of the crossbar 88 may be inserted into one ormore holes, apertures, or the like formed in the side rails 18, 20and/or table top 4. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciatethat the crossbar 88 may have a variety of suitable shapes, sizes andconfigurations. For example, the crossbar 88 may extend only across aportion of the table top 4 and the crossbar may include other types ofstructures and components, such as plates, brackets, fasteners, flanges,projections, fixtures, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 4, the leg 10 may be pivotally attached to the brace 52and the leg 12 may be pivotally attached to the brace 50, and thesebraces may be pivotally attached to a brace 98. The brace 98 may bepivotally attached to a crossbar 88. The braces 86, 98, however, do nothave to be pivotally attached to the crossbar 88. In fact, only some ofthe braces, such as braces 34, 36, 50, 52, 86, 98 may be pivotallyattached depending, for example, upon the intended configuration and useof the table 2. Additionally, the table top 4; legs 6, 8, 10, 12;crossbars 30, 32; braces 34, 36, 50, 52, 86, 98; side rails 18, 20; andcrossbar 88 may be connected in any suitable manner, but thesecomponents do not have to be interconnected. Further, the legs 6, 8, 10,12 may be attached to the table 2 in any suitable manner and the legs donot have to be pivotally attached to the table.

The legs 6, 8, 10, 12 and the crossbars 30, 32, 88 are preferablyconstructed from generally hollow steel tubes. In addition, the braces34, 36, 38, 86, 50, 52, 98 and the side rails 18, 20 are preferablyconstructed using steel. These components may be finished using anysuitable materials or processes such as painting or powder-coating. Itwill be appreciated that the legs 6, 8, 10, 12; crossbars 30, 32, 88;braces 34, 36, 38, 86, 50, 52, 98; and side rails 18, 20 may also beconstructed using other materials with appropriate characteristics andthese components may have other any suitable sizes, shapes andconfigurations depending, for example, upon the design and/or use of thetable 2.

The side rails 18, 20 are preferably securely attached to the table top4 to allow, for example, a strong and rigid table 2 to be created. Forexample, an exemplary embodiment for attaching the side rails 18, 20 tothe table top 4 is shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. While the side rails 18, 20are illustrated as having a generally straight and elongatedconfiguration, the side rails could have any suitable configurationdepending upon the size and shape of the table 2. In addition, while thetable top 4 is illustrated as having a downwardly extending lip orprojection that is disposed near an edge or side of the table top, theside rails 18, 20 could be attached to any suitable portions of thetable top 4.

As shown in FIG. 5, the exemplary embodiment of the side rail 18 a is anelongated member that is attached to a table top 4 a with an elongatededge. It will be understood that the side rail 18 a and/or table top 4 amay have other suitable shapes, sizes and configurations depending, forexample, upon the type of table 2. In addition, while the side rail 18 apreferably extends along at least a majority of the length of the tabletop 4 a, the side rail may extend only along a portion of the table top.Further, the side rail 18 a may be attached to any suitable portions ofthe table top 4 a and the side rail 18 a may include multiple componentsthat are spaced apart or interconnected.

In greater detail, as shown in FIG. 6, an edge of side rail 18 a mayinclude a curvilinear portion 100 that may curve into a substantiallystraight portion that may contact a inner, first surface of an outsidelip or edge of the table top 4 a at or near a portion 102. The side rail18 a may also include another curvilinear portion 104 that may be spacedapart from a substantially flat portion 106 of the outside lip or edgeof the table top 4 a, creating a gap 108. The side rail 18 a then maycurve from the curvilinear portion 104 to a substantially flat portionthat may contact a bottom, second surface of the outside lip or edge ofthe table top 4 a at or near a portion 110. The side rail 18 a may thenlead into a curvilinear portion 112 that may curve into a substantiallystraight portion that may contact an outer, third surface of an outsidelip or edge of the table top 4 a at or near a portion 114. The side rail18 a may then lead into a curvilinear portion 115 that may terminatewith an edge of side rail 18 a positioned within a channel, groove oropening 116.

The side rail 18 a is preferably connected to a lip or projection thatextends downwardly from the lower surface of the table top 4 a. The lipor projection is preferably located at or near an outer edge of thetable top 4 a, but the lip or projection may be located inwardly fromthe outer edge of the table top. Advantageously, the side rail 18 a mayenclose and/or contact three or more surface of the lip or projection,which may allow the side rail to be securely attached to the table top 4a. The side rail 18 a, however, does not have to contact three or moresurfaces of the table top 4 a. Thus, while the side rail 18 a preferablycovers, encloses and/or contacts at least two portions of the table top4 a, the side rail could be attached to the table top in any suitablemanner or configuration.

As shown in FIG. 6, the channel or opening 116 may be formed in theouter lip or edge of the table top 4 a and the channel 116 may bebounded by sides 118, 120, and 122. The side 122 may be disposed atabout a 45 degree angle with respect to an outer surface of the outerlip or edge of the table top 4 a. The side 122 may also be disposed atany other suitable angle with respect to an outer surface of the outerlip or edge of the table top 4 a. One of ordinary skill in the art willappreciate that the channel or opening 116 may include any suitablenumber of sides, surfaces, shapes and configurations. In addition, thechannel or opening 116 may be continuous or it may include one or morediscrete channels or openings.

As shown in FIG. 6, an outer surface of a portion of the side rail 18 amay be sized to be in a substantially similar plane as an outer surfaceof a portion of the outer lip or edge of the table top 4 a. For example,an outer surface of the side rail 18 a at a portion 124 may be in asubstantially similar plane as an outer surface of a portion of theouter lip or edge of the table top 4 a at a portion 126. Also, an outersurface of a portion of the outer lip or edge of the table top 4 a (suchas, at the portion 114) may be displaced inwardly of an outer surface ofa portion of the outer lip or edge of the table top 4 a (such as, theportion 126). The outer surface of the portion 114 may be displacedinwardly of the outer surface of the portion 126 in distance about thethickness of the portion 124 of the side rail 18 a. Accordingly, theportions 124 and 126 may present a substantially flat surface that maybe advantageous for storing a table on its side, for shipping a table,or may present a comfortable surface against which a user of the tablemay grasp the table or otherwise contact the table. The portions 124 and126, however, need not be positioned in a substantially similar planedespite the related advantages of doing so. Further, the outer surfaceof the portion 114 and outer surface of the portion 126 may be displacedat any other suitable distances, may be positioned in substantially thesame plane, or may be positioned in any other suitable manner.

Additionally, a channel or opening 130 may be formed in the table top 4.The channel 130 is preferably formed in a lower or underneath portion ofthe table top 4, but the channel may also be formed in the lip,projection or other suitable portion of the table top 4. The channel 130may include a curvilinear portion 132, a substantially straight portion134, a curvilinear portion 136, a curvilinear portion 138, and asubstantially straight portion 140, but the channel may have othersuitable sizes, shapes, and/or designs. Desirably, an end of the siderail 18 a may be positioned within the channel 130 and may be positionedapart from the portion 134. Of course, the end of the side rail 18 a maybe positioned outside the channel 130, may be position in contact withthe portion 134, or may be positioned in any other suitable location.

Although the side rail 18 a and the table top 4 a have been describedand illustrated with certain shapes, configurations, and designs; theside rail 18 a and the table top 4 a may have any other suitable shape,configuration, and/or design.

As shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D, the side rail 18 a may be quicklyand easily attached to the table top 4 a. In the illustrated embodiment,as shown in FIG. 7A, a portion of the edge of the side rail 18 a mayadvantageously be placed within the channel 116. The side rail 18 a mayadvantageously be pivoted or otherwise moved from the position shown inFIG. 7A to the position shown in FIG. 7B; from the position shown inFIG. 7B to the position shown in FIG. 7C; and from the position shown inFIG. 7C to the position shown in FIG. 7D. Advantageously, this may allowthe side rail 18 a to be attached to the table top 4 a using a frictionfit, a snap fit, an interference fit, or the like. Significantly, thismay allow the side rail 18 a to be quickly and easily attached to thetable top 4 a, which may aid in assembling the table 2. In addition,this may eliminate the need for fasteners, adhesive and the like to beused to attach the side rail 18 a to the table top 4 a. It will beunderstood, however, that fasteners, adhesives and the like may also beused to attach the side rail 18 a to the table top 4 a. Further, it willbe understood that the side rail 18 a may be attached to the table top 4a using any suitable device or method.

The side rail and/or table top may have other suitable shapes andconfigurations. For example, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, anotherexemplary embodiment of the table includes a side rail 160 and a tabletop 165. Advantageously, the side rail 160 may be used with any suitabletype of table or table top. As shown in the accompanying figures, theside rail 160 includes two sides that may contact portions of two sidesof a lip or projection. As illustrated, the lip or projection may bespaced apart from the outer lip or edge of the table top 165, but thelip or projection could form part of the outer lip or edge of the tabletop. The side rail 160 may include two substantially flat sides and acurved portion positioned in between. An outer lip or ridge 142 may beformed using an outer portion 144 that may curve into a portion 146,which may curve into an inner portion 148. The inner portion 148 maylead to a portion 150 and a portion 152. Accordingly, a channel oropening 154 may be formed and one end of the side rail 160 may bedisposed within or near the opening.

As shown in FIG. 8A, the portion 152 may curve into a portion 156 andthen lead to a portion 158. The portions 152, 156, and 158 mayadvantageously form an inner lip or ridge 159. The inner lip or ridge159 may advantageously be spaced apart from the outer lip or edge 142 inany suitable distance, including, but not limited to, less than one (1)centimeter; about one (1) centimeter; about two (2) centimeters; betweenone (1) and three (3) centimeters; more than three centimeters; or anyother suitable distance. Further, the inner lip or ridge 159 and theouter lip or edge 142 may advantageously be spaced apart at varyingdistances along their lengths, at the same distance along their lengths,or in any other suitable fashion. The channel or opening 154 may be usedto space apart the inner lip or ridge 159 and the outer lip or edge 142.Of course, the inner lip or ridge 159 and the outer lip or edge 142 neednot be spaced apart.

The side rail 160 may be positioned at or near the portion 156 and at ornear the portion 158 of the inner lip or ridge 159. A channel or opening161 may be formed by the portion 158, a portion 162, and a portion 164.The portion 164 may curve into a portion 166. An end of the side rail160 may be positioned within the channel 161 and may contact the portion162, may be located at or near the portion 162, or may be configured inany other suitable configuration. Of course, the end of the side rail160 may be positioned in any suitable position and need not bepositioned in the channel 161, contact the portion 162, or be located ator near the portion 162.

The side rail 160 may be positioned at or near an inner surface and abottom surface of an inner lip or ridge of the table top 165. The siderail 160 may be positioned at or near two or more surfaces an inner lipor ridge of the table top 165. The side rail 160 may be positioned at ornear one or more portions of an inner lip or ridge of the table top 165.The side rail 160 may be positioned at or near an inner portion of aninner lip or ridge of the table top 165. The side rail 160 may bepositioned in a contacting relationship with one or more surfaces of aninner lip or ridge of the table top 165. The side rail 160 may also bepositioned in a non-contacting relationship with one or more surfaces ofan inner lip or ridge of the table top 165. The side rail 160 may becover at least a portion of an inner surface and at least a portion of abottom surface of an inner lip or ridge of the table top 165. Of course,the side rail 160 may be positioned in any suitable position and in anysuitable relationship with the table top 165 or portions of the tabletop 165.

Although the side rail 160 and the table top 165 have been described andillustrated with certain shapes, configurations, and designs; the siderail 160 and the table top 165 may have any other suitable shape,configuration, and/or design.

Another exemplary embodiment of a side rail and table top is shown inFIGS. 9A and 9B. The exemplary side rail 167 includes three sides thatmay contact portions of three sides of an inner lip or ridge of thetable top 168. While the inner lip or ridge may be spaced apart from anouter lip or edge of the table top 168, the side rail may be attached toan outer lip or edge of the table top. The outer lip or ridge 169 may beformed using an outer portion 170 that may curve into a portion 172,which may curve into an inner portion 174. The inner portion 174 maylead to a portion 176 and then to a portion 178. The portion 178 maycurve into a portion 180 and then curve to a portion 182.

The portions 178, 180, and 182 may advantageously form an inner lip orridge 183. The inner lip or ridge 183 may advantageously be spaced apartfrom the outer lip or edge 169 in any suitable distance, including, butnot limited to, less than one (1) centimeter; about one (1) centimeter;about two (2) centimeters; between one (1) and three (3) centimeters;more than three centimeters; or any other suitable distance. Further,the inner lip or ridge 183 and the outer lip or edge 169 mayadvantageously be spaced apart at varying distances along their lengths,at the same distance along their lengths, or in any other suitablefashion. A channel or opening 184 may be formed by the portion 174, theportion 176, and the portion 178. The channel or opening 184 may be ofany suitable shape, configuration, size or design. While the channel oropening 184 is preferably continuous, the channel or opening may alsoinclude one or more discrete channels or openings. The channel oropening 184 may advantageously be used to space apart the inner lip orridge 183 and the outer lip or edge 169. Of course, the inner lip orridge 183 and the outer lip or edge 169 need not be spaced apart.

As shown in FIG. 9A, the side rail 167 may be positioned at or near oneor more of the portions 178, 180 and/or 182 of the inner lip or ridge183. In addition, the side rail 167 may include an end that curves intoa substantially straight end 186, which may curve into a substantiallyflat portion 188 and then to a portion 189. A curvilinear portion 190may be spaced apart from the inner lip or ridge 183 to form a gap 191.

The side rail 167 may be positioned at or near an inner surface, abottom surface, and an outer surface of an inner lip or ridge of thetable top 168. The side rail 167 may be positioned at or near three ormore surfaces of an inner lip or ridge of the table top 168. The siderail 167 may be positioned at or near one or more portions of an innerlip or ridge of the table top 168. The side rail 167 may be positionedat or near an outer portion of an inner lip or ridge of the table top168. The side rail 167 may be positioned in a contacting relationshipwith one or more surfaces of an inner lip or ridge of the table top 168.The side rail 167 may also be positioned in a non-contactingrelationship with one or more surfaces of an inner lip or ridge of thetable top 168. The side rail 167 may cover at least a portion of aninner surface, at least a portion of a bottom surface, and at least aportion of an outer surface of an inner lip or ridge of the table top168. Of course, the side rail 167 may be positioned in any suitableposition and in any suitable relationship with the table top 168 orportions of the table top 168.

A ridge 192 may be provided in the table top 168. The ridge 192 may bepositioned to help secure the side rail 167 in a fixed position. Theridge 192 may be positioned to help provide a lever point about whichthe side rail 167 may be pivoted when attached the side rail 167 to theinner lip or ridge 183. In addition, the ridge 192 may be used toprevent the side rail 167 from undesirably moving or bending. Forexample, when a load or force is placed on the table, the side rail 167and/or table top 168 may bend or deform. Advantageously, the ridge 192may prevent or limit the bending or deformation of the side rail 167and/or table top 168.

Although the side rail 167 and the table top 168 have been described andshown in connection with certain preferred shapes, configurations, anddesigns; the side rail 167 and the table top 168 have any other suitableshapes, configurations, and/or designs.

Although this invention has been described in terms of certain preferredembodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art are also within the scope of this invention. Accordingly, thescope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the claimswhich follow.

1. A table comprising: a table top constructed from blow-molded plastic,the table top including an upper portion and a lower portion, the tabletop including a hollow interior portion that is formed during theblow-molding process; a lip integrally formed with the table top as partof a unitary, one-piece construction, the lip extending generallydownwardly from the lower portion of the table top, the lip including ahollow interior portion that is formed during the blow-molding process,the lip including an outer portion, an inner portion and a lowerportion; a first leg support movable between a collapsed position and anextended position relative to the table top; a second leg supportmovable between a collapsed position and an extended position relativeto the table top; a first side rail connected to a first portion of thelip, the first side rail including an outer portion, an inner portionand a lower portion; the outer portion, inner portion and lower portionof the first side rail enclosing at least a portion of the outerportion, inner portion and lower portion of the lip; and a second siderail connected to a second portion of the lip, the second side railincluding an outer portion, an inner portion and a lower portion; theouter portion, inner portion and lower portion of the second side railenclosing at least a portion of the outer portion, inner portion andlower portion of the lip.
 2. The table as in claim 1, further comprisinga first groove in the outer portion of the lip and an end of the outerportion of the first side rail being at least partially disposed withinthe first groove; and further comprising a second groove in the outerportion of the lip and an end of the outer portion of the second siderail being at least partially disposed within the second groove.
 3. Thetable as in claim 1, further comprising a first channel in the innerportion of the lip and an end of the inner portion of the first siderail being at least partially disposed within the first channel; andfurther comprising a second channel in the inner portion of the lip andan end of the inner portion of the second side rail being at leastpartially disposed within the second channel.
 4. The table as in claim1, further comprising a first channel in the lower portion of the tabletop and an end of the inner portion of the first side rail being atleast partially disposed within the first channel; and furthercomprising a second channel in the lower portion of the table top and anend of the inner portion of the second side rail being at leastpartially disposed within the second channel.
 5. The table as in claim1, wherein the inner portion of the first side rail side rail contactsat least a portion of the outer portion of the lip, and the lowerportion of the first side rail contacts at least a portion of the lowerportion of the lip; and wherein the inner portion of the second siderail contacts at least a portion of the inner portion of the lip, theouter portion of the second side rail contacts at least a portion of theouter portion of the lip, and the lower portion of the second side railcontacts at least a portion of the lower portion of the lip.
 6. Thetable as in claim 1, wherein the first side rail is attached to the lipby a friction, snap or interference fit; and wherein the second siderail is attached to the lip by a friction, snap or interference fit. 7.The table as in claim 1, further comprising an outer edge of the tabletop, wherein the outer edge of the table top is generally aligned withthe outer portion of the first side rail and the outer edge of the tabletop is generally aligned with the outer portion of the second side rail.8. The table as in claim 1, further comprising a first projection in thelower portion of the table top, the first projection being disposedproximate an end of the inner portion of the first side rail; andfurther comprising a second projection in the lower portion of the tabletop, the second projection being disposed proximate an end of the innerportion of the second side rail.
 9. The table as in claim 1, wherein thelip is generally disposed about an outer perimeter of the table top. 10.The table as in claim 1, wherein the lip is spaced inwardly from anouter perimeter of the table top.
 11. The table as in claim 1, furthercomprising a second lip integrally formed with the table top as part ofa unitary, one-piece construction, the second lip extending generallydownwardly from the lower portion of the table top, the second lipincluding a hollow interior portion that is formed during theblow-molding process, the second lip including an outer portion, aninner portion and a lower portion.
 12. The table as in claim 1, furthercomprising a first channel at least partially disposed in the lowerportion of the lip, one end of the first side rail being disposedproximate the first channel; and further comprising a second channel atleast partially disposed in the lower portion of the lip, one end of thesecond side rail being disposed proximate the second channel.
 13. Thetable as in claim 1, wherein the lip includes three generally planarsections, the first side rail includes three generally planar sectionsand the second side rail includes three generally planar sections;wherein the three generally planar sections of the first side rail coverat least a portion of the three generally planar sections of the lip;and wherein the three generally planar sections of the second side railcover at least a portion of the three generally planar sections of thelip.
 14. The table as in claim 13, wherein the three generally planarsections of the first side rail contact the three generally planarsections of the lip; and wherein the three generally planar sections ofthe second side rail contact the three generally planar section of thelip.
 15. The table as in claim 1, wherein the outer portion of the firstside rail is disposed generally parallel to the inner portion of thefirst side rail; and wherein the outer portion of the second side railis disposed generally parallel to the inner portion of the second siderail.
 16. The table as in claim 1, wherein the outer portion of thefirst side rail is disposed generally parallel to the outer portion ofthe lip, the inner portion of the first side rail is disposed generallyparallel to the inner portion of the lip, and the lower portion of thefirst side rail is disposed generally parallel to the lower portion ofthe lip; and wherein the outer portion of the second side rail isdisposed generally parallel to the outer portion of the lip, the innerportion of the second side rail is disposed generally parallel to theinner portion of the lip, and the lower portion of the second side railis disposed generally parallel to the lower portion of the lip.
 17. Thetable as in claim 1, wherein the lip is disposed about the entireperimeter of the table top.